The McKee Barn, as it is commonly called, is not a historic building as are most of the others at the Madison County Historical Complex. Instead, the barn was built in 1991 with funds from the estate of Elmer Dean McKee (1905-1990) to house a large collection of tools, implements, machinery and farm-related articles.
The barn is 120 feet by 80 feet and has two levels. There is a 90-feet handicapped-accessible ramp to the lower level where a six-inch concrete floor can withstand heavy machinery. There are three overhead doors to help move agricultural equipment in and out, plus ample lighting and ventilation fans.
Born in 1905, McKee served his country in the U.S. Army during World War II. He entered politics as the finance chairman for the Republican Party in Sac County, Iowa, and this led to a 10-year career in the House and Senate of the Iowa General Assembly. McKee farmed in northwest Madison County until his death in 1990.
Year Built: 1991
Added to Museum Complex: Built onsite
Original location: Current location
